Haloacetic acids (HAA5) are a group of chemicals that form as byproducts during the water disinfection process. This occurs when chlorine, commonly used by water treatment facilities like the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC), reacts with naturally occurring organic matter in the water. The primary haloacetic acids found in drinking water are monochloroacetic acid (MCA), dichloroacetic acid (DCA), trichloroacetic acid (TCA), monobromoacetic acid (MBA), and dibromoacetic acid (DBA). These compounds, particularly those containing chlorine and bromine, can flow directly into your home’s water supply.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets a maximum contaminant level (MCL) for HAA5 at 0.06 mg/L to ensure water safety. If your water contains higher levels of these acids, it may pose health risks over prolonged exposure. For a detailed analysis of what’s in your water and effective solutions, the professionals at Hague Quality Water of Maryland are ready to help.
The Health Risks of Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)
Although haloacetic acids have generally been considered to have low toxicity at the levels commonly found in drinking water, exposure to elevated levels over time could increase the risk of certain health issues. Long-term exposure to higher concentrations of HAA5 has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, according to some animal studies, though conclusive human data is still lacking.
Animal studies have also suggested other potential health concerns, such as reproductive issues, including birth defects and spontaneous abortions. While more research is needed to fully understand the human health impacts, regulatory agencies have classified haloacetic acids as possible carcinogens, underscoring the importance of caution.
Short-term tests can detect high levels of HAA5 in your system through blood or urine analysis. However, it is more challenging to track prolonged exposure to low-level contaminants, potentially allowing small but persistent risks to go undetected. This makes it crucial to monitor and reduce these contaminants in your water.
Is Your Water Tested for HAA5?
Public water systems, including those run by the WSSC, are required to regularly test for haloacetic acid levels. When levels exceed the EPA’s MCL, appropriate corrective actions must be taken to lower the concentrations. For example, in a 2019 Tap Water Analysis, WSSC found HAA5 levels of 81 mg/L, and another 2022 analysis reported HAA5 levels at 70 mg/L both well above the national safety limit of 60 mg/L. While WSSC continually works to enhance water quality, you should consider additional steps to safeguard your household’s water from these potential hazards.
How to Remove Haloacetic Acids from Your Water
The most reliable method for reducing HAA5 levels in your water is to target the organic matter that reacts with disinfectants like chlorine. While traditional water treatment methods such as coagulation, sedimentation, and filtration are effective to a certain extent, they don’t always eliminate all organic precursors, leaving room for the formation of haloacetic acids.
How Can You Ensure Safe Water for Your Family?
Ensuring that your tap water is clean and safe is an important step toward protecting your family’s health. While bottled water can serve as a temporary solution, it’s often expensive and inconvenient. Investing in a high-quality water filtration system is a more sustainable option.
The Hague WaterMax® BEQ water filtration system is designed to provide you with clean, great-tasting water straight from your tap. This advanced filtration system effectively removes chlorine, sediment, and mineral deposits, ensuring your water is free from harmful contaminants. Additionally, the system’s soft water feature can protect your appliances and improve the health of your skin and hair.
The Hague WaterMax® BEQ system comes with a 25-year Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty, offering long-term peace of mind. You can enjoy healthier, safer water for years to come.
For more information, or to schedule a free consultation on the best water filtration solution for your home, contact the experts at Hague Quality Water of Maryland today at (410) 709-4691. We’re here to ensure that your family has access to the highest quality water possible.
